US Embassy Warns American Citizens in Metro Manila

The United States Embassy issued a three-page security advisory Friday, September 28, warning American citizens in Metro Manila, particularly in Pasay City, of a threat “detected by reliable security forces.” However, the threat, which is in effect until October 10, has not been determined by the advisory.

But according to the advisory, U.S. Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. responded to this threat by changing the “security profile for all U.S. government facilities in the Metro.”

They also advised American citizens to “ (1) exercise extreme caution in their daily routine and to maintain extra awareness regarding their own security, (2) as much as possible, maintain a low profile, (3) vary travel routes and social routines, (4) consider cancelling American gatherings, celebrations or observations that could be construed as American events, (5) report any perceived security concern to Philippine authorities.”

The advisory reminded Americans, too, of a “continuing threat of terrorist actions and violence against U.S. citizens and interests throughout the world, ” and that “terrorism can occur anywhere.”

It also said that public demonstrations, however “meant to be peaceful,” can turn “violent and unpredictable,” so U.S. citizens should stay away from it as much as possible.

Apart from these reminders, said advisory encouraged U.S. citizens to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program of the Department of State at the U.S. Embassy in Manila. Doing so, the citizens will get the latest safety and security updates during their trip, and that they can be reached anytime during an emergency.